Notes & Quotes for Aug. 31

“I like the sound of the clubs hitting the ball. Since I can’t see where it goes, I don’t care where it goes, just as long as it sounds good.” Blind golfer Irv Fine of Youngstown.

“When they believe ‘Hey, I can do this,’ then I know I’ve done my job.” Mark Holshu, the new principal at Madge Youtz School in Canton. Holshu is a former janitor.

“The money I’ll be saving in gas alone will pay for the car payment.” Carrie Matthews of Hartville, a last-minute Cash for Clunkers customer.

“It was fun while it lasted.” Brad Black, owner of Downtown Ford in Canton, on the federal Cash for Clunkers program, which ended last week.

“The most incredible thing is, people got out of the service soaking wet and drove home in their wet clothes.” The Rev. John Hampton, senior pastor at First Christian Church in Plain Township, who conducted an impromptu baptism of 91 people at his church on Aug. 23.

“For his family, he was a protector. To America, he was a defender of a dream.” President Barack Obama, reacting to the death of Sen. Edward M. Kennedy.

“Every home game is like Christmas around here.” Massillon Tigers head football coach Jason Hall. The Tigers won their first game of 2009 last week by beating Akron Buchtel, 42-20.

“That’s how he finds me. Like when we’re in the Wal-Mart, he blows, and I know that means it’s time to go.” Janice Haynam of Canton Township, whose husband, Ellwood, can imitate a steam engine train whistle.

“It’s a good feeling but kind of awkward. I forget sometimes that I’m on a TV show.” Brandon Talbert of Canton, on being recognized for appearing on “Dance Your Ass Off,” a reality-TV competition.

“It’s not every day you get to be around superstars.” Paul Kegley of Canton, on auditioning to be a movie extra for a new film starring Denzel Washington. A portion will be shot in Brewster.

“Ain’t like I’m a bad guy. We all make mistakes.” Aaron West, who was fired from the Stark Regional Community Correctional Center for allegedly having an inappropriate relationship with a female prisoner. He has filed suit.

BOO TO YOU, TOO

During a meeting last week with constituents in Sun City, Ariz., former presidential candidate Sen. John McCain was at the receiving end of some boos when he declared that President Barack Obama respects the Constitution.

McCain told the crowd that he had no doubt that the president, a former professor of constitutional law, respects the document but that Obama simply holds a different philosophy than he does on the role of government.

McCain admonished the hecklers to show respect for their president — which generated some applause.